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June Is Recognized As Men’s Health Month

Submitted by menshealth on Fri, 06/01/2018 - 05:21

Awareness Period Puts Focus on Health of Men and Boys

WASHINGTON – Today, June 1 kicks off the 2018 Men’s Health Month, an annual awareness period solely dedicated to education and activities on the health and wellness of men and boys. Communities around the nation are recognizing Men’s Health Month and Men’s Health Week, a special awareness period recognized by Congress.

This year, Men’s Health Week will be celebrated June 11-17 ending on Father’s Day. The week is celebrated as International Men’s Health Week around the globe. During this time, health care professionals, private corporations, faith-based and community organizations, and government agencies plan activities that focus on the health and well-being of boys, men, and their families. Men’s Health Month is built on the pillars of Awareness–Prevention–Education–Family.

“Awareness periods like Men’s Health Month are crucial in helping to educate the public on health issues and health disparities impacting men,” said Ana Fadich, VP of Men’s Health Network. “Men continue to suffer from chronic illness and lower insurance rates than women. Men are also less likely to seek out mental health services than women. Support for Men’s Health Month from policymakers, state and federal legislators, the media, and our private and non-profit partners can help fight these systemic issues and save lives.”

“Health and safety are important in any workplace, particularly for men working physically demanding jobs. They are more prone to workplace injuries and it’s important for them to be aware of their health and engage their medical providers,” said Todd Washam, Director of Industry and External Relations Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). “Men’s Health Month is a great awareness and education period to encourage men to make their health a priority.”

“Just like your car is triggered to remind you when it’s time to change your oil or get serviced, the month of June should serve as a mental trigger for men to get their body checked,” said Jamin Brahmbhatt , MD, a urologist and advisor to MHN. “June is the perfect time for men to stop thinking and start getting screened for medical conditions that can be easily prevented and caught early. When it comes to your prostate health and overall wellness it’s better to get checked now than wait until it’s too late.”

This has been a pivotal year for men’s health. In May, a federal health task finalized new recommendations impacting prostate cancer screenings for men and MHN

"Awareness and early intervention are both key in preventing most chronic diseases impacting men, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and many types of cancer. Annual activities that promote awareness like Men's Health Month are crucial in initiating conversations and leading men to be more engaged in their health," said Jean Bonhomme, MD, Founder of the National Black Men’s Health Network. "Making men healthier can only lead to improved health for families and communities.”